Cappuccino Nanaimo Bars Recipe
If you’re searching for a showstopping dessert that’s as easy to assemble as it is unforgettable, Cappuccino Nanaimo Bars are your new go-to treat. With their luscious layers of chocolate, creamy espresso filling, and crunchy, nutty base, these Canadian classics get a bold twist from the addition of rich coffee flavor. Whether you’re making them for a special occasion or simply craving something sweet with your evening coffee, these bars deliver big on taste, texture, and eye-catching appeal. Get ready to fall in love!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed how just a handful of pantry staples and a few flavorful accents come together to create an irresistible batch of Cappuccino Nanaimo Bars. Each ingredient plays a starring role—some giving decadent creaminess, others adding crunch or that signature coffee kick!
- Unsalted butter: Provides richness and structure for all three layers; using unsalted lets you control the overall flavor.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the base and helps create that perfectly tender texture in the bottom layer.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: Delivers deep chocolate flavor to the foundation of your bars.
- Large egg: Binds the bottom layer and adds a satisfying chewiness.
- Graham cracker crumbs: Essential for that classic Nanaimo crunch and a toasty, buttery base.
- Shredded sweetened coconut: Adds chew and a hint of sweetness and tropical flair to each bite.
- Finely chopped walnuts: Give the crust an extra layer of texture and a subtle nuttiness.
- Instant espresso powder: The secret weapon for that cappuccino vibe, infusing the filling with robust coffee flavor.
- Powdered sugar: Blends seamlessly into the filling, making it silky and sweet without any grittiness.
- Custard powder or vanilla instant pudding mix: Creates that classic creamy, slightly firm middle layer.
- Milk: Loosens the filling just enough for a spreadable, airy texture.
- Semisweet chocolate: Makes a wonderfully snappy top glaze without being overly sweet.
How to Make Cappuccino Nanaimo Bars
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by lining an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, making sure to leave an overhang on the sides. This little trick will help you lift the finished bars out of the pan effortlessly for flawless slicing later on.
Step 2: Make the Bottom Layer
In a heatproof bowl set over simmering water (that classic double boiler magic), stir together the melted butter, sugar, and cocoa powder until the mixture is glossy and smooth. Next, whisk in the beaten egg very slowly—this is what helps the mixture thicken up until it’s luxuriously fudgy. Once thickened, take the bowl off the heat and stir in the graham cracker crumbs, coconut, and walnuts. Press this mixture firmly and evenly into your lined pan, getting into all the corners. Pop it into the fridge to chill while you prepare the next layer.
Step 3: Mix the Cappuccino Middle Layer
In a small bowl or measuring cup, dissolve the instant espresso powder in hot water and let it cool a touch—that caffeine aroma is a sneak peek of what’s to come! In another bowl, whip the softened butter until it’s light and airy, then beat in the powdered sugar, custard powder or pudding mix, milk, and your espresso mixture. The goal: a pale, fluffy, coffee-scented cloud. Spread this evenly over your chilled base and return everything to the fridge for a good half hour, so the middle layer sets beautifully.
Step 4: Create That Chocolate Top Layer
Melt the chopped semisweet chocolate and butter together in a microwave-safe bowl, using gentle 30-second bursts and stirring often. Once smooth and glossy, let it cool for just a few minutes—if it’s too hot, it could melt the filling, but too cool and it won’t spread well. Pour it gently over your cappuccino layer and spread it out with an offset spatula for that professional finish. Chill one last time until the top is fully set, at least an hour.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Lift the chilled slab out of the pan using the parchment overhang (so satisfying) and place it on a cutting board. For the cleanest, most drool-worthy squares, run your knife under hot water, wipe it clean between cuts, and slice into 16 decadent Cappuccino Nanaimo Bars. You’ll see all those gorgeous layers in every slice!
How to Serve Cappuccino Nanaimo Bars
Garnishes
For a little extra flair, try dusting the tops of your Cappuccino Nanaimo Bars with a sprinkle of finely ground espresso, a few chocolate shavings, or even a tiny swirl of whipped cream. If you’re feeling artistic, a dusting of cocoa powder or a drizzle of melted chocolate gives a beautiful finish and just hints at all the goodness beneath.
Side Dishes
These bars are pretty indulgent on their own, but they absolutely shine beside a hot mug of cappuccino, a cold glass of milk, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an over-the-top dessert moment. If you’re serving up a dessert platter, include some fresh berries for a little tartness to balance all that sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Cappuccino Nanaimo Bars look gorgeous in neat little squares, but you can also cut them into diamond shapes or even use small cookie cutters for bite-sized party treats. Try layering them in a mason jar parfait, alternating with whipped cream and chocolate curls, for an eye-catching twist. Individually wrapped, these bars also make a delightful edible gift or favor!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cappuccino Nanaimo Bars keep wonderfully in the fridge. Simply stack them in an airtight container, placing parchment between layers to prevent sticking. They’ll stay fresh and delicious for up to a week—though good luck making them last that long!
Freezing
Want to save some for later? These bars are perfect for freezing. Once set and sliced, wrap each bar individually in plastic wrap or parchment, then pop them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to two months, making them a fantastic make-ahead treat for busy weeks or impromptu gatherings.
Reheating
No actual reheating required—these decadent treats are served chilled! However, if you’ve frozen your Cappuccino Nanaimo Bars, let them thaw in the fridge for a few hours, or at room temperature for about 30 minutes, to bring them back to their chewy, creamy best.
FAQs
Can I make Cappuccino Nanaimo Bars nut-free?
Absolutely! Just swap out the walnuts for extra graham cracker crumbs or shredded coconut. You’ll keep all the great texture, without the nuts—perfect for allergy-friendly gatherings.
Do Cappuccino Nanaimo Bars contain caffeine?
Yes, thanks to the instant espresso powder, there is a small dose of caffeine in each bar. It’s not overwhelming, but the flavor and gentle coffee kick are definitely part of the charm!
My middle layer seems a bit runny. What should I do?
If your filling is too loose, try adding a little more powdered sugar (one tablespoon at a time) and beat it again. Also be sure to chill each layer thoroughly—especially the middle—before adding the next.
Can I use regular instant coffee instead of espresso powder?
You can! The flavor won’t be quite as bold, but regular instant coffee dissolved in hot water will still give your bars a lovely coffee note. Feel free to taste and adjust the amount to your preference.
What’s the best way to get clean slices?
For perfect squares, use a sharp knife run under hot water and wiped dry between cuts. This melts through the chocolate top cleanly and makes every Cappuccino Nanaimo Bar look bakery-ready!
Final Thoughts
If you love decadent desserts with a hit of coffee flavor, you simply have to try these Cappuccino Nanaimo Bars. They’re fun to make, gorgeous to serve, and absolutely irresistible with every creamy, chocolatey bite. Pour yourself a coffee, share them with your favorite people, and watch them disappear!
Print
Cappuccino Nanaimo Bars Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours (including chilling)
- Yield: 16 bars 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of coffee and chocolate with these delightful Cappuccino Nanaimo Bars. A no-bake Canadian treat that features layers of cocoa, espresso, and chocolate for a decadent dessert experience.
Ingredients
Bottom Layer:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 3/4 cups graham cracker crumbs
- 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
- 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts
Middle Layer:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons instant espresso powder
- 2 tablespoons hot water
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons custard powder or vanilla instant pudding mix
- 2 tablespoons milk
Top Layer:
- 6 oz semisweet chocolate, chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving an overhang for easy removal. In a heatproof bowl over simmering water (double boiler), combine melted butter, sugar, and cocoa powder. Stir until smooth. Slowly whisk in the beaten egg and continue stirring over the heat until the mixture thickens, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in graham cracker crumbs, shredded coconut, and chopped walnuts. Press the mixture firmly and evenly into the prepared pan. Chill in the refrigerator while preparing the next layer.
- For the middle layer: Dissolve espresso powder in hot water and let cool slightly. In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until fluffy. Add powdered sugar, custard powder, milk, and dissolved espresso. Beat until light and smooth. Spread evenly over the chilled bottom layer. Return the pan to the refrigerator and chill for 30 minutes.
- For the top layer: In a microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate and butter in 30-second intervals, stirring until smooth. Let cool for 5 minutes before pouring over the middle layer. Spread gently with an offset spatula. Chill until completely set, at least 1 hour. Use a warm knife to slice into bars.
Notes
- For cleaner cuts, run a sharp knife under hot water and wipe between slices.
- Store in the fridge for up to 1 week or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Bake
- Cuisine: Canadian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bar
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 23 g
- Sodium: 90 mg
- Fat: 19 g
- Saturated Fat: 11 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 27 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 35 mg
